Does the Ancient Shield Deflect Beams? A Comprehensive Guide
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The Definitive Answer: Automatic Beam Deflection
Yes, the Ancient Shield in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild automatically deflects Guardian beams. Unlike other shields in the game, the Ancient Shield doesn’t require a perfectly timed parry to send Guardian lasers right back at the source. This unique functionality makes it an invaluable asset for players facing the formidable Guardians. When a Guardian beam hits the Ancient Shield, it’s automatically reflected, causing damage to the Guardian, without the need for any user input beyond simply having your shield raised.
How it Works
The Ancient Shield utilizes ancient Sheikah technology, allowing it to not only withstand Guardian laser attacks but also redirect them. Its surface is known to glow blue when raised in defense, which is a visual indication of its enhanced functionality at work. This makes facing Guardians less perilous and significantly more efficient, especially for players who struggle with the timing needed for a traditional shield parry. The shield does all the work of deflection automatically, granting players an advantage in combat.
The Ancient Shield: Key Features
Automatic Laser Reflection
The automatic laser reflection is the most important feature of the Ancient Shield. This means that you do not need to time your shield use to deflect the beam, which makes fighting Guardians much easier. This is particularly useful for those who haven’t mastered the shield parry timing or simply want a more straightforward approach to these encounters.
Durability
The Ancient Shield is strong enough to withstand 6 laser beams from Guardians. This is significant, as Guardian attacks are some of the most powerful in the game. This durability, coupled with the shield’s auto-parry feature, makes it a reliable choice for extended battles against multiple Guardians. Although the shield will eventually break, its high durability provides significantly more uses than other shields.
Defense Strength
The Ancient Shield boasts a base defense strength of 70, which is equal to the Royal Guard’s Shield, though it has superior Durability. This high defense strength further enhances its utility in a variety of combat scenarios, not just against Guardians. It’s a solid choice against a variety of enemies.
Superior to Guardian Shield++
In comparison to the Guardian Shield++, the Ancient Shield is superior in both defense strength and durability. This makes it the premium option for players looking for the most reliable shield against Guardians and in general combat situations. The Ancient Shield is also much easier to obtain than the Guardian Shield++.
Obtaining the Ancient Shield
To acquire the Ancient Shield, you need to visit Robbie at the Akkala Tech Lab. He will require the following materials:
- 1,000 rupees
- 1 Giant Ancient Core
- 15 Ancient Springs
- 10 Ancient Gears
While this requires a fair amount of resources, the investment is worthwhile considering the shield’s exceptional defensive capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can any shield deflect Guardian beams?
Yes, any shield can deflect Guardian beams if you perform a perfect parry. This involves hitting the “A” button right as the Guardian’s eye turns blue and just as it fires. However, this method is significantly more difficult and can damage your shield if not done perfectly, except for the Hylian Shield.
2. Does parrying with other shields damage them?
Yes, attempting to parry a Guardian beam with any shield except for the Hylian Shield has a high probability of damaging them if done improperly, and can even lead to the shield being destroyed in one hit. The timing must be precise.
3. Does the Ancient Shield require parrying?
No, the Ancient Shield does not require parrying. It automatically reflects the Guardian’s laser back at the attacker. This is the primary advantage of using it, requiring no specific timing for defense.
4. How many Guardian beams can the Ancient Shield block?
The Ancient Shield can block six laser beams from Guardians before breaking. This is much higher than most other shields in the game. This high level of durability makes it excellent for frequent combat with Guardians.
5. Where can you obtain the Ancient Shield?
You can purchase the Ancient Shield from Robbie at the Akkala Tech Lab after completing the prerequisite questlines. He will require specific ancient materials and rupees to make it.
6. What are the crafting materials for the Ancient Shield?
The crafting materials for the Ancient Shield are:
- 1,000 rupees
- 1 Giant Ancient Core
- 15 Ancient Springs
- 10 Ancient Gears
7. Can the Ancient Shield be repaired?
No, the Ancient Shield cannot be repaired. However, if broken, it can be repurchased from Grante in Tarrey Town, provided you have already acquired one.
8. What is the base defense strength of the Ancient Shield?
The base defense strength of the Ancient Shield is 70, which is the same as the Royal Guard’s Shield.
9. Is the Ancient Shield good for shield surfing?
Yes, the Ancient Shield is considered one of the best shields for shield surfing, due to its excellent durability. This makes it a great versatile shield.
10. Can you add sockets to the Ancient Shield?
The provided information does not state the ability to add sockets to the Ancient Shield, but references using Larzuk as a quest reward for other items to add sockets. This information is not confirmed to be possible for the Ancient Shield.
11. Can the Hylian Shield be damaged?
Yes, the Hylian Shield can be damaged and eventually broken, but it has extremely high durability compared to all other shields. You will have to let the shield break for a second one to become available.
12. Is the Hylian Shield the best in Tears of the Kingdom?
Yes, the Hylian Shield is considered the best overall shield in Tears of the Kingdom because of its high defense and high durability.
13. What are the benefits of the Ancient Shield compared to other shields?
The Ancient Shield provides the primary benefits of automatic laser reflection and its high durability and base defense. These factors make it ideal for engaging Guardians and other enemies. It combines both defense and offense in one shield.
14. Can you deflect Guardian Scout beams?
Yes, you can deflect Guardian Scout beams with a Guardian Shield or with the Ancient Shield. Any shield can parry Guardian Scout beams but doing so will still damage your shields. The Ancient Shield will not take any damage, and automatically deflect them.
15. What is the best shield in Tears of the Kingdom?
While Tears of the Kingdom introduces many powerful shields, the Hylian Shield is widely considered to be the best overall due to its combination of high defense and durability. Other strong options include the Mighty Lynel Shield, Daybreaker, and Royal Guard’s Shield.
Conclusion
The Ancient Shield is an exceptional piece of equipment in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Its ability to automatically deflect Guardian lasers, along with its impressive durability and defense, makes it a crucial item for any player tackling the challenges Hyrule has to offer. While obtaining it requires a commitment of resources, the investment is well worth the enhanced defense and strategic advantage it provides against one of the game’s most formidable enemies.